Mercedes CLA45 AMG Racing Series Concept Screeches into Frankfurt

The S-Class Concept Coupe is rightly hogging all the headlines, but there’s more to the Mercedes stand than that. Making its world debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show is the CLA45 AMG Racing Series concept that previews the carmaker’s entry-level customer racecar. Typical racing add-ons include a new front apron with splitter, rear diffuser with three fins and adjustable aerofoil, flared carbon-fiber wings, and side sill panels with air intakes to cool the rear brakes. Treadless racing tires help give the CLA45 AMG RS added width.

Chassis upgrades include a special adjustable racing suspension with a wider track and an AMG braking system with ventilated discs and anti-lock system. The interior of the four-door coupe has been kitted out with a high-strength steel roll-over cage, carbon-fiber Recaro racing bucket seat, racing steering wheel with shift paddles, and an integrated fire extinguishing system. While technical specs remain under wraps, Mercedes confirmed the 2.0-liter turbo-four used in the stock CLA45 will motivate the RS variant, while FWD may be offered instead of AWD.